By Patience Longwe

Lilongwe, March 31, Mana: The National Commission for Science and Technology (NCST) has recognized and rewarded outstanding achievements in research, science, technology, and innovation (RSTI) in Malawi.

The occasion marked a significant milestone in the country's efforts to promote RSTI and capacity building.

Speaking during the event on Monday at Capital hotel in Lilongwe, Vice Board Chairperson for the National Commission for Science and Technology, Limbikani Matumba, acknowledged the positive impact of the grants on innovators and researchers, ensuring continued support for RSTO initiatives.

"NCST has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting scientific endeavors throughout grants, including the small grants scheme.

The small grants scheme is part of the science and technology fund, which also includes institutional grants, technology innovation Grant’s, and others, NCSY periodically invest in research and development of technologies that benefit the nation" he said.

He also congratulated the awardees for their hard work, dedication, and patience, and he also encouraged them to network, partner, and collaborate with fellow awardees, emphasizing the importance of their project's impact on the nation.

Lecturer at the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) Chawanangwa Mwakwisayu has made a rallying call to the private sector to provide critical support to innovators, a move seen as vital in propelling Malawi towards its ambitious goal of becoming a middle-income country.

"By supporting innovators, the private sector can play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of innovation, helping to turn creative ideas into tangible solutions that address the country's pressing challenges" he said.

The university's plea comes as Malawi continues to grapple with the challenges of economic development, seeking to harness the power of innovation and entrepreneurship to drive growth and transformation.

The government, through the National Commission for Science and Technology (NCST) has awarded grants worth over K 97 million to 33 local Innovators and researchers under the small Grants Scheme programme.